The music world is buzzing after a viral exchange between Rihanna and rising South African superstar Tyla that many are calling a subtle (or not-so-subtle) jab. On what appears to be a recent post (circulating widely in mid-January 2026), Rihanna showered praise on Tyla, drawing parallels to her own early career days.

Rihanna reportedly tweeted: “I really love Tyla and she reminds me of my younger self. I wish her nothing but the best and I just wanna see her success in this music industry business. She really has a potential to be exactly like me and if I was still doing music I would’ve worked on an album with her.”

The compliment, while seemingly supportive from the billionaire icon (and mother to three with partner A$AP Rocky), struck some as condescending—positioning Tyla as a potential “mini-me” rather than a fully established artist in her own right.

Here are stunning images of Tyla performing and shining on stage, showcasing her unique style and energy that have propelled her to global fame:

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Tyla, known for her breakout hit “Water” (which made her the first African solo artist to hit 1 billion Spotify streams) and her amapiano-infused pop sound, quickly responded in a reply that fans have dissected as a polite but pointed clapback: “Awe that’s so sweet thanks Riri but I’m really not trying to be like you. I just want to be Tyla and be remembered as Tyla. I also don’t think working on an album with you would be a good thing for my career just please focus on making babies for now.”

The line about “focus on making babies” — a cheeky reference to Rihanna’s family life with A$AP Rocky and their three children (RZA, Riot Rose, and reportedly more on the way in some fan speculation) — landed like a mic drop. It subtly flipped the narrative: while Rihanna highlighted her legacy and potential collaboration, Tyla asserted her independence and suggested the Fenty mogul’s priorities have shifted away from music.

Here are heartwarming family moments of Rihanna and A$AP Rocky with their kids, highlighting the “making babies” focus Tyla playfully referenced:

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Fan reactions exploded online, with many praising Tyla for standing her ground. Supporters called it “iconic” and “refreshing,” noting how often emerging Black female artists get compared to established ones like Rihanna, sometimes diminishing their originality. Others defended Rihanna, arguing the comment was meant as high praise from someone who paved the way. Earlier interviews show Tyla has consistently addressed comparisons gracefully—telling outlets like Cosmopolitan in 2024 that being likened to Rihanna is “flattering” but she’s determined to be seen as “just Tyla.”

Here are more captivating shots of Tyla’s rise, from red carpets to performances, proving why she’s carving her own path:

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This back-and-forth highlights a generational shift in the industry: younger stars like Tyla (who’s earned Grammy nods and headlined major festivals) are confident in their individuality, even when receiving props from legends. Rihanna, now a business powerhouse with Fenty Beauty, Savage X Fenty, and motherhood, remains an untouchable influence—but Tyla’s response reminds everyone she’s not here to emulate; she’s here to innovate.

Whether it was a lighthearted jab or a firm boundary, the exchange has fans talking, streaming both artists even more, and celebrating two powerful women dominating in their own ways. The music industry just got a little spicier—and Tyla made sure her name stands alone.